Aflion Carrot vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and TTC Gold Silver stand out as noteworthy options, each offering unique qualities worth exploring. The Carrot switch boasts a bouncy tactile experience thanks to its long, two-stage spring, along with a mid-pitched sound profile that adds to its distinctive feel. On the other hand, the Gold Silver switch is praised for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel, resulting in a solid bottom-out with each keystroke and a smooth journey from press to finish. While the Carrot switch excels in providing a tactile and firm typing experience, the Gold Silver switch focuses on swift action and smooth keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Carrot and TTC Gold Silver keyboards feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other materials. The use of polycarbonate is ideal for those who desire a more clear and resonant sound when typing, making it a popular choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to the overall sound quality produced by the keyboard.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both the Carrot and Gold Silver keyboards provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastic materials. Nylon is favored for its ability to absorb sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who prefer a softer touch.
While both keyboards share similarities in their use of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switches can impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing will be felt when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how these materials interact within the switches can help users tailor their typing experience to their preferences, whether they prioritize sound quality, tactile feedback, or a combination of both.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Carrot requires 45 grams while the Gold Silver's bottom out force is unknown. The Carrot provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Gold Silver offers a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have different actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer compared to the TTC Gold Silver linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Carrot offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Gold Silver provides a slightly shallower distance. Gamers, who often prioritize faster response times, may lean towards the Gold Silver switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Aflion Carrot more to their liking with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Carrot has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Carrot for $3.57.
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a resonant, high-pitched quality. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep, rich tone with a more bass-heavy quality. Both switches have different sound characteristics, with the Carrot being more bright and percussive while the Gold Silver is deeper and more mellow.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot switch is described as bouncy and snappy, offering a lively and responsive typing experience with a spring-like rebound sensation. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its polished and silky feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. While the Carrot switch focuses on a more energetic and tactile feedback, the Gold Silver switch emphasizes a sleek and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a bouncy and clacky experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, while the Gold Silver switch offers a polished and thocky typing feel with a low-pitched sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the lively and resonant qualities of the Carrot switch or the smooth and refined characteristics of the Gold Silver switch to suit their individual needs. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile switch with a mid-pitched sound profile, the Aflion Carrot would be a great choice for you. The long, two-stage spring in the Carrot offers a unique typing experience that is both satisfying and responsive. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with rapid responsiveness and a deep, thocky sound profile, the TTC Gold Silver would be more suitable for you. The Gold Silver's shortened travel and smooth bottom-out provide a sense of precision and closure with every keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Carrot and TTC Gold Silver comes down to your preference for tactile versus linear switches, as well as the sound and feel you desire in your mechanical keyboard. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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